CAS Hanwei Swords Practical Elite Katana Sword, Multi

I have a decent amount of experience when it comes to katana, and this piece is hands down the best you can get for the price. The balance point is perfect. The edge is wickedly sharp. The kissaki (point) is a little rough, but still sharp and effective. It is even better than some of the $200+ swords I have handled and used in cutting excersizes. Buy it if you can; it is a great beginner sword, or a wonderful piece for the experienced swordsman who wants to have a less expensive weapon to do some real cutting with. I am about 5'10" and slender, and this blade is properly proportioned for a man of my build.Other reviewers complained or at least mentioned the somewhat different handle materials used in this weapon. It is far from the "leather" that is advertised, but it is indeed better than leather. The synthetic Tsuka-Ito (handle cord wrap) that they used here is incredibly grippy, and quite comfortable during practice. I bought japanese cotton Ito cord, expecting to have to replace the synthetic and re-wrap it, but upon delivery I decided to keep the original wrap because it was so comfortable. The synthetic Same (material under the ito cord wrapping, traditionally ray or sharkskin) is to be expected considering the limited price range of the sword, but the rubbery-plastic simulation is, again, very neatly done. Most people would be unable to discern it from real ray skin from more than 3-4 feet away. The sword can be dismounted, it is not "glued" as other reviewers mentioned. They simply didn't know how to do it right, and there is really no need to take it down unless you are fixing a broken piece or changing Ito.The Saya (sheath) is plain and traditional, with a seemingly nylon or possibly cotton sageo (the cord on the saya used to secure the sword once tucked through your belt or hang it over your shoulder) and black lacquered look. Nothing special but it looks nice and works well. Most importantly, the sword fits tightly into the saya, lowering the possibility of accidental cuts. The papers included give instructions on how to tighten the saya when it is worn down from use, and from my knowledge these directions are well written and correct. Again, better than all others I've seen in the price range in terms of saya quality. The sword bag is a nice touch, and useful for more discreet carry in public (I.e. walking to your Dojo).As far as the tsuba (hand guard) and other metal fittings are concerned, you have to remember this is designed as a working sword, not a decorative element or museum quality piece. The habaki is slightly decorated with hatch-mark like slashes, the butt of the sword has tiny dot patterns where the ito cord enters the end cap, and the tsuba features holes for the traditional knife and hair-tool (which are not included with this sword). Simple, but this is a sword for those who wish to use a sword. All the fittings are tight, not wobble in the tsuka and none of the pieces wiggle or make noise. It has that solid piece feeling that shows quality.UPS shipping got it to me even though there was a storm that put all the power out. Packaging was great, box within a box with foam buffers.Overall, this sword gets an A++ for the price range. My other swords may be more beautiful on display, but when it comes to cutting takami mats, or slashing up some bad guys, this is the sword I'll grab.Good luck in your studies of this great art.

Very poor quality. The saya was cheap and damaged straight from the box. The blade was dull. The tsuka and tsuba were loose and broken. This sword was a joke and very poorly manufactured. The best thing about it able to return it for a refund. Do not buy this made in china cheap garbage you will be disappointed.

I have always wanted a katana that was suitable for light cutting. I did a bit of internet research and found that this particular katana was highly recommended as a good starting point. It arrived packaged very securely and had a very conspicuous warning label urging one to exercise caution while unpacking. Rightly so because this thing is very sharp. I have been around firearms my whole life and I treat and respect edged weapons equally. Any carelessness with this katana will result in it biting you, HARD.As far as the quality goes, I am extremely novice so I'll do my best. It appears to have good balance and the handwrap provides a good grip. The blade is straight and appears free of cracks or major flaws. The hamon looks as if it might be etched to enhance its prominence. The fit in the scabbard is tight and secure. I was disappointed that the lanyard was not decoratively wrapped, but this is easily fixed by watching a youtube instructional video.All in all, I would recommend this as a good starter for a collection.

It's nice and well made. Came sharp.I'm giving it 3 stars though, because Upson inspection of the blade, There are scuff marks, rust and scratches. I was hoping there would have been a final inspection of the sword before it was shipped.

This is as cheap as you can go to get a combat ready, relatively traditionally made katana. It was love at first sight when I received it. I strongly disagree with reviewers who have deemed the Tsuka and/or Tsuba "ugly," as while they are not ornate, they are far from an eye-sore, in my opinion. "Not beautiful" does not equal "ugly" to me. The blade, on the other hand, is gorgeous in my eyes. It is very solidly secured to the Tsuka, with absolutely no play in the blade. It is made of a relatively strong 1566 steel, too. The way light reflects off of it is striking & mesmerizing. The hamon is obviously real, and mine arrived very sharp. I put a razor sharp edge on it fairly easily and quickly. It was a little loose fitting in the saya, but a small piece of "gorilla tape" along the inside of the opening of the saya created a perfect & snug fit. Totally recommend this awesome sword to poor folk such as myself that want to own the closest thing to a "real" katana as they can afford to buy. I find this katana at least equal to others twice the price. Exceedingly satisfied with my purchase...